Call To Protect Cateran Trail Walking Route

Appeal for cash to help upgrade 64-mile circuit through Perthshire and Angus

A fundraising appeal has been launched to safeguard one of Scotland’s favourite walking routes.

The Cateran Trail – a 64-mile trek through the Perthshire and Angus glens, forests and moors – attracts thousands of hikers from around the world each year.

Next month, teams from around the country will descend on the trail for the annual Cateran Yomp, a challenge that raises money to support soldiers, veterans and their families.

The Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust has launched a £60,000 drive to help bring the circuit up to standard after nearly two decades of use. Money raised will pay for extra investment and maintenance, as well as buying new gates and styles and sorting out drainage on the muddiest sections.

The charity manages and maintains the trail with 42 landowners. It costs about £20,000 a year to keep it in good condition. Climate change and heavy downpours have also taken their toll.

Trust manager Morag Watson said: “We are passionate about getting people out into Perthshire’s amazing countryside and the Cateran Trail is a real labour of love. It takes a lot to keep it going but it is a real asset to east Perthshire and lots of businesses depend on it.

“This isn’t just about fixing the broken bits; if our appeal is successful we will be able to make a real investment in upgrading the paths so they are more robust and resilient to damage and can be enjoyed for years to come.”